The Most Romantic Places to Stay in South Africa A Guide for Couples

South Africa is a country that offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers. From stunning landscapes and wildlife to vibrant cities and rich cultural heritage, this African nation has something for everyone. However, if you are looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other, South Africa has plenty of options to choose from. With luxurious lodges, private villas, and idyllic settings, there are numerous places to stay that will make your trip truly unforgettable.

In this article, we will take you on a journey through the most romantic places to stay in South Africa. Whether you are planning a honeymoon, anniversary, or simply a romantic retreat, we have got you covered. So pack your bags, grab your partner’s hand, and get ready to explore the best of what South Africa has to offer.

1. The Cape Winelands – Escape to the Countryside

The Cape Winelands is a picturesque region located just outside of Cape Town. It is known for its breathtaking scenery, charming small towns, and, of course, its world-renowned vineyards. This is the perfect destination for couples who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse themselves in the beauty of the countryside.

Where to Stay in the Cape Winelands

1. La Residence, Franschhoek – This opulent Relais & Châteaux property is set on a 30-acre estate surrounded by vineyards and mountains. The suites are exquisitely decorated, and each one has a private terrace with stunning views. The hotel also has a spa, a private cinema, and an outdoor pool where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

2. Babylonstoren, Simondium – Located on a 300-year-old farm, this boutique hotel is a paradise for nature lovers. The rooms are designed in a minimalist style with whitewashed walls, exposed beams, and large windows that bring in plenty of natural light. The hotel also has a farm-to-table restaurant, a spa, and a beautiful garden where you can take romantic walks.

3. Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek – This elegant hotel is situated on a working wine estate and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding valleys. The rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated, and many of them come with their own private plunge pools. The hotel also has a spa, a gym, two restaurants, and a wine-tasting room where you can sample some of South Africa’s best wines.

What to Do in the Cape Winelands

1. Wine Tasting – No trip to the Cape Winelands would be complete without visiting some of the region’s famous wineries. You can book a tour with a local guide who will take you to the best vineyards, or you can rent a car and explore at your own pace.

2. Hiking and Biking – The Cape Winelands are home to some of the most scenic hiking and biking trails in South Africa. Whether you are an experienced hiker or prefer a leisurely stroll, there are plenty of options to choose from. Make sure to pack a picnic basket and enjoy a romantic lunch surrounded by nature.

3. Visit the Towns – The Cape Winelands is dotted with charming towns that are worth exploring. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl are all known for their rich history, quaint architecture, and excellent restaurants. Take a walk through the streets hand in hand with your loved one and soak up the atmosphere of these idyllic towns.

2. The Garden Route – A Scenic Road Trip for Two

The Garden Route is a 300-kilometer stretch of coastline that runs along the southern coast of South Africa. It is a popular tourist destination, known for its stunning scenery, diverse wildlife, and charming seaside towns. This is the ideal route for couples who enjoy road trips and want to explore some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes.

Where to Stay on the Garden Route

1. Tsala Treetop Lodge, Plettenberg Bay – This luxurious lodge is situated in the heart of the Garden Route and offers a unique experience for couples. The suites are built on stilts and connected by wooden walkways, giving you the feeling of being in a treehouse. You can relax in your private plunge pool while admiring the surrounding forests and mountains.

2. Kwandwe Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape – For couples who want to combine a beach holiday with a safari experience, Kwandwe is the perfect choice. This 22,000-hectare reserve is home to the Big Five and offers luxurious safari lodges and villas. You can spend your days on game drives, guided walks, or simply relaxing in your own private retreat.

3. The Turbine Boutique Hotel, Knysna – Located on Thesen Island, this boutique hotel has been converted from a former power station and offers a unique blend of industrial design and luxury. The rooms are spacious and stylishly decorated, and many of them have private balconies with views of the lagoon. The hotel also has a spa, a restaurant, and a bar where you can enjoy a romantic dinner or cocktails.

What to Do on the Garden Route

1. Drive the Route – The best way to experience the beauty of the Garden Route is by driving it. The route starts in Mossel Bay and ends in Storms River, and there are plenty of scenic stops along the way. Make sure to take your time and enjoy the breathtaking views.

2. Explore National Parks – The Garden Route is home to several national parks, including Tsitsikamma National Park, Wilderness National Park, and Knysna National Lake Area. These parks offer a variety of activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and canoeing, making them perfect for couples who love nature.

3. Go Whale Watching – If you are visiting the Garden Route between July and November, you have a chance to see Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales. You can take a boat tour from Plettenberg Bay or Hermanus and get up close to these magnificent creatures.

3. The Drakensberg – A Mountain Retreat for Two

The Drakensberg is a mountain range that stretches across the eastern part of South Africa. It is a popular destination for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers. This region is also home to some of the most romantic lodges in the country, making it an ideal spot for couples looking for a peaceful and secluded getaway.

Where to Stay in the Drakensberg

1. Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse, KwaZulu-Natal – This award-winning lodge is situated on a 500-acre estate and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The rooms are individually decorated with a mix of modern and traditional elements, and each one has its own fireplace. The hotel also has a spa, a restaurant, and a wine cellar where you can taste some of South Africa’s best wines.

2. The Cavern Resort & Spa, KwaZulu-Natal – Nestled in the foothills of the Northern Drakensberg, this family-owned resort is a haven for couples seeking a tranquil retreat. The rooms are cozy and comfortable, and many of them come with private balconies or patios. The resort also has a spa, a restaurant, and numerous activities such as horse riding, fishing, and hiking.

3. Champagne Castle Hotel, KwaZulu-Natal – This elegant hotel is situated in the heart of the Central Drakensberg and offers panoramic views of Champagne Castle and Cathkin Peak. The rooms are luxurious and spacious, and some of them have fireplaces and jacuzzis. The hotel also has a spa, a gym, and a restaurant serving delicious local cuisine.

What to Do in the Drakensberg

1. Hiking – The Drakensberg is a hiker’s paradise with numerous trails to suit all levels of fitness. Some of the most popular hikes include the Amphitheatre Hike, Cathedral Peak Hike, and Sentinel Peak Hike. Make sure to pack a picnic and take in the breathtaking views along the way.

2. Hot Air Balloon Ride – For a truly unique and romantic experience, why not take a hot air balloon ride over the Drakensberg? You will get a bird’s eye view of the stunning landscapes and might even spot some wildlife from up above.

3. Visit a Cultural Village – The Drakensberg is home to the Zulu people, one of South Africa’s largest ethnic groups. You can visit a traditional Zulu village and learn about their way of life, customs, and traditions. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of the region.

4. The Eastern Cape – Beaches and Safari in One Trip

The Eastern Cape is a diverse region that offers a mix of beach holidays, wildlife experiences, and cultural attractions. This is a great destination for couples who want to combine relaxation with adventure and explore lesser-known parts of South Africa.

Where to Stay in the Eastern Cape

1. Kariega Game Reserve, Kenton-on-Sea – This private game reserve is situated on the banks of the Kariega River and is home to the Big Five. The reserve offers a variety of accommodation options, including luxury lodges, tented camps, and river cruises. You can also enjoy activities such as game drives, guided walks, and boat safaris.

2. Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve, Port Alfred – This exclusive lodge is located on a private beach and offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean. The suites are spacious and stylishly decorated, and each one has its own plunge pool. The lodge also has a spa, a gym, and a restaurant serving delicious seafood dishes.

3. Wild Coast Sun, Port Edward – If you are looking for a beach holiday with a touch of luxury, Wild Coast Sun is the perfect choice. The resort is set on a secluded stretch of beach and offers a range of facilities, including an 18-hole golf course, a casino, and numerous restaurants. You can also go on guided hikes, horse riding, or take a boat trip along the coast.

What to Do in the Eastern Cape

1. Visit Addo Elephant National Park – Located just outside of Port Elizabeth, Addo Elephant National Park is the third-largest national park in South Africa. It is home to over 600 elephants, as well as other wildlife such as lions, rhinos, and buffalo. You can go on a self-drive safari or book a guided tour with a local guide.

2. Explore the Wild Coast – The Wild Coast is a remote and unspoiled stretch of coastline that runs from East London to Port Edward. It is a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy long walks on the beach, swimming in the ocean, or visiting local villages.

3. Go Whale Watching in Algoa Bay – Algoa Bay is known as the Bottlenose Dolphin Capital of the World, but it is also a popular spot for whale watching. Southern Right Whales and Humpback Whales can be seen here between June and November, and you can book a boat tour from Port Elizabeth to get a closer look at these majestic creatures.

5. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park – A Safari Experience Like No Other

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast wilderness area that spans across South Africa and Botswana. It is a remote and unspoiled destination that offers an authentic safari experience for couples who want to get off the beaten track.

Where to Stay in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

1. Tswalu Kalahari Reserve, Northern Cape – Tswalu is the largest private game reserve in South Africa and offers an exclusive and luxurious safari experience. There are only two lodges on the reserve, which means you will have plenty of privacy and seclusion. The suites are spacious and elegant, and each one has its own private deck with views of the surrounding landscapes.

2. !Xaus Lodge, Northern Cape – This eco-friendly lodge is situated in the heart of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and offers an authentic and sustainable safari experience. The rooms are comfortable and beautifully decorated, and the lodge has a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a rooftop observatory where you can stargaze at night.

3. Kalahari Anib Lodge, Namibia – Located just outside of the park’s borders, this lodge is a great base for exploring the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. The rooms are spacious and equipped with all the necessary amenities, and the lodge also has a swimming pool, a restaurant, and a bar where you can relax after a day of game viewing.

What to Do in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park

1. Go on Game Drives – The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, and antelopes. You can go on guided game drives or self-drive and explore the park at your own pace.

2. Visit the Red Dunes – The Kalahari Desert is known for its red sand dunes, which are a photographer’s dream. You can take a guided walk or drive to some of the most beautiful dunes in the park, such as 4×4 Dune Drive or Gemsbokplein.

3. Stargazing – The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is one of the best places in the world for stargazing. There is very little light pollution here, which means you can see thousands of stars and even the Milky Way with the naked eye. Make sure to take a tour to the rooftop observatory and learn about the constellations from a knowledgeable guide.

6. The Western Cape – Where City Vibes Meet Nature’s Beauty

The Western Cape is a diverse province that offers something for every type of traveler. From vibrant cities to stunning beaches and majestic mountains, this region has it all. It is also home to some of the most romantic getaways in South Africa, making it a popular destination for couples.

Where to Stay in the Western Cape

1. The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa, Cape Town – This luxurious hotel is situated on the Atlantic Seaboard and offers breathtaking views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range. The rooms are spacious and elegantly decorated, and many of them have their own private balconies. The hotel also has a spa, a restaurant, and a bar where you can enjoy cocktails while watching the sunset.

2. The Last Word Franschhoek, Franschhoek – This boutique hotel is located in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley and offers a unique blend of contemporary design and old-world charm. The rooms are stylishly decorated, and each one has its own fireplace and private garden. The hotel also has a spa, a swimming pool, and a library where you can relax with a book.

3. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, Gansbaai – Surrounded by ancient milkwood forests and overlooking Walker Bay, this eco-friendly lodge is a nature lover’s paradise. The suites are spacious and luxurious, and each one has a private deck with views of the ocean. The lodge also has a spa, two restaurants, and plenty of activities such as horse riding, whale watching, and guided walks in the forest.

What to Do in the Western Cape

1. Explore Cape Town – Cape Town is a vibrant and cosmopolitan city with plenty to see and do. You can take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, visit the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, or take a stroll along the V&A Waterfront. There are also numerous restaurants, cafes, and bars where you can sample some of South Africa’s delicious cuisine and wines.

2. Road Trip Along the Garden Route – As mentioned earlier, the Garden Route is a must-visit destination for couples. However, if you don’t have time to drive the entire route, you can still explore some of its highlights, such as Cape Agulhas, Mossel Bay, and Wilderness.

3. Relax on the Beach – The Western Cape is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in South Africa, including Clifton, Camps Bay, and Llandudno. Pack a picnic and spend the day sunbathing, swimming, or taking romantic walks along the shore.

Conclusion: Discover the Romance of South Africa

South Africa is a country that has something for every type of traveler. But if you are looking for a romantic getaway with your significant other, there are countless options to choose from. Whether you prefer a cozy mountain retreat, a luxurious beach holiday, or an adventurous safari experience, you will find it all in this beautiful nation. So pack your bags, book your tickets, and get ready to explore the most romantic places to stay in South Africa.